taking the edge off
Lessening the sharpness
Taking the edge off means reducing the intensity of something unpleasant—pain, anxiety, hunger, or irritation.
The phrase often appears with alcohol or other substances used to dull discomfort: I need a drink to take the edge off.
It can also describe anything that softens harshness: A good meal took the edge off her bad mood.
- relievingReducing discomfort or strain
- teaSteeped leaf beverage
- napBrief daytime rest
- calmingInducing a settled state
- easingReducing strain or difficulty
glass of wine · soothing · alleviating · buffer · mitigating · dulling · comfort · comfort food · stress eating · whiskey · venting · assuaging · softening · warmth · mellow · hug · sedating · compromise
intensity modulation
taking the edge offintensifying
Increasing in strength
sharpening · heightening · amplifying · exacerbating · aggravating